Bluegrass Homebrew steps in to supply local basement beer-makers

The recent closing of My Old Kentucky Homebrew left home brewers without a convenient source of ingredients, and John Ronayne, the manager, without a job. But now he has opened his own store, Brewgrass Homebrew, at 2227 Preston Street just north of Eastern Parkway.

Ronayne, who is running his business by himself, offers beginner kits with all that is needed to start brewing at home, knowledgeable advice and encouragement and a wide selection of malts, hops and equipment. Winemaking supplies are also available, and he plans to offer classes in both brewing and winemaking..

The homebrew community in the Louisville-Southern Indiana has long been a strong presence –FOSSILS (Fermentors of Special Southern Indiana Libations) and LAGERS (Louisville Area Grain & Extract Research Society) are two long-time area brewing clubs – and has helped fuel the craft beer expansion that the area is witnessing.